Eliminate Hassles

Each year around this time, West Florida Electric begins encouraging and reminding its members to update their account information. We usually do this at the beginning of summer storm season and hurricane season for outage restoration purposes, but did you know there are several other important reasons you should always keep your account information up-to-date?

One reason is for security purposes. Each time a member requests a service or sets up a new account, the last four digits of the social security number listed on the account are verified. The correct mailing address and a good phone number are also needed when setting up new service or requesting a change or addition to the services the cooperative is already providing. This is so the co-op can make contact with the member as needed.

In some cases, a spouse will contact WFEC to make changes on accounts, but if that spouse’s name is not listed on the account, then the co-op cannot accept the request until the person listed on the account makes the request.

Safety is another reason the information on file needs to be accurate. Having the correct contact number listed on your account is very important – especially if a hazardous situation occurs at the location. This is particularly important if it is a vacation home, campsite, or if the member lives out of town.

Having the correct information listed on your account is also important because it could impact you financially. Because the cooperative disperses deceased capital credits, it helps the heirs of an estate if the information on the decedents account is correct. There are times when someone remarries and does not change their name. In this case, the heirs have to provide a proof of a name change and it puts more burden on them to gather the additional documents needed.

“The process for updating your account information is sometimes as simple as calling the office. Especially for phone number or address changes,” said Peggy Davidson, Coordinator, Service Center in the Bonifay district. “However, for name changes due to marriage, divorce or spelling we will need a copy of your driver’s license and social security card documenting the new name,” she continued.

Finally, having the correct information listed on your account is very important for outage restoration efforts. This is a way you can assist WFEC personnel with our power restoration efforts. If the automated system answers your call to report an outage, and you are calling from a different number than is listed on your account, the system won’t recognize your location. This could delay your power restoration during a storm. You don’t want that to happen and neither do we, so please make sure all of your account information is completely up-to-date.

There are several ways to update your info with WFEC:1) Call any of our district offices to make simple changes like phone numbers or addresses.2) You can also update your information using our website. Here’s how: Visit www.westflorida.coop and look for the “Manage Your Account” field. Use your username and password to log in (if this is the first time you are using this service, you must call the office to get a username and password) and follow the prompts to enter the member portal. Once there, click on the “My Account” tab, then select the “Account Profile” option and update any phone numbers associated with your account. You can also update your address and other account information under this tab.3) Call (855) MYWFECA and select option #4 to update or change your phone number.4) Speak with a member services representative next time you are in the office and have them assist you with changing your information. If you have any questions about updating your account or how to do so, contact WFEC at 800.342.7400.

Energy Efficiency Tip

Water heaters can last up to a decade with proper maintenance. Turn down the temperature dial, test the relief valves & flush the tank twice a year.